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Intermediate wheatgrass as a dual use crop for grain and grazing
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A perennial is a plant that lives more than two years—distinct from annual plants, which die after one growing season. Perennial grains (like Kernza®) can have an average of four times the root mass of annual wheat. That means more carbon sequestration and nutrient retention, plus year-round cover that protects soil and conserves water.
Perennial crops have deep root systems that anchor the soil year-round, significantly reducing erosion and preserving topsoil fertility.
These crops provide habitats for many species, from pollinators to the microorganisms critical to healthy soil.
With their extensive root systems, perennials improve water infiltration and retention, reducing runoff and improving drought resistance.
Perennial plants capture and store carbon dioxide in their biomass and root systems, helping mitigate climate change.
Due to their longevity and resilience, perennials often require less fertilizers and pesticides, leading to more sustainable farming practices.
Perennial crops can provide consistent yields over multiple years, reducing the need for annual replanting and offering farmers more stable income streams.
